From September 8 to 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, Chair of the NATO Military Committee, visited Mongolia, solidifying NATO’s partnership with the nation. The visit included discussions on military modernization, peacekeeping contributions, and the importance of military and civilian cooperation in addressing global security concerns. Admiral Bauer also honored Mongolia’s military heritage by visiting the statue of Chinggis Khaan.
From September 8 to September 10, 2024, Admiral Bauer, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee, undertook a significant visit to Mongolia, a longstanding NATO partner, at the invitation of the Chief of the General Staff of the Mongolian Armed Forces. This visit highlighted NATO’s commitment to strengthening its partnership with Mongolia, fostering dialogue, enhancing capabilities, and ensuring interoperability. Admiral Bauer conveyed NATO’s support for Mongolia’s democratic aspirations and their shared goals for peace and stability.
During his visit, Admiral Bauer toured the Five Hills Peace Support Operations Training Center, observing the site where Mongolia has diligently contributed to global stability through peacekeeping initiatives. His activities included significant discussions with top military officials, including Chief of the General Staff Major General Ganbyamba Sunrev, focusing on the modernization of the Mongolian Armed Forces and acknowledging Mongolia’s contributions to NATO-led missions over the past 16 years, notably in Kosovo and Afghanistan.
The visit continued with meetings at the Ministry of Defence, and the Secretary of the National Security Council, where Admiral Bauer emphasized the importance of military cooperation against global security challenges. He also outlined the principles underpinning NATO-Panther partnerships, which are based on mutual respect and tailored to the specific needs of partner nations.
On the final day of the visit, Admiral Bauer engaged with representatives from Allied embassies in Mongolia, underscoring the necessity of integrating civilian and military diplomacy for more robust international partnerships. His visit culminated with a tribute to Mongolia’s military heritage by visiting the statue of Chinggis Khaan. The long-standing relationship between NATO and Mongolia, established since 2005, has progressed to include a tailored partnership programme focusing on contemporary issues like security, climate change, and human rights.
The NATO-Mongolia partnership has been in place since 2005, with significant developments including the establishment of dialogue platforms and cooperation initiatives. Since 2012, the engagement has been structured through an Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme, which transitioned to an Individually Tailored Partnership Programme in 2024. This evolution reflects a deepened commitment to addressing global and regional security concerns effectively. The visit by Admiral Bauer underscores NATO’s strategic interest in enhancing its partnerships with global partners, particularly in light of shared democratic values and security objectives.
Admiral Bauer’s visit to Mongolia was a testament to the enduring partnership between NATO and Mongolia, highlighting the importance of cooperation in addressing global security challenges. The discussions and meetings during this trip reinforced NATO’s commitment to support Mongolia’s modernization efforts and shared aspirations for peace and stability. As NATO continues to evolve and adapt, partnerships like the one with Mongolia will play a crucial role in fostering international security.
Original Source: www.nato.int
